[A] CARLISLE man has been banned from keeping dogs after his pet bit a man during violence in the city.
Dale Graham, 34, also received a 15-month jail term for his role in an incident during the early hours of April 23 which also involved his then-girlfriend.
Carlisle Crown Court heard how eventual victim David Osborne robustly refused to give Graham any money as the defendant begged on Botchergate. There were then exchanges between the men, who were captured on CCTV at West Walls a short time later along with Graham’s then-partner Samantha Smith.
Smith punched Mr Osborne in the face. And, as further trouble ensued, Graham’s Staffordshire bull terrier-type dog bit Mr Osborne on the leg, leaving marks and bruises but no infection.
It was inferred by the prosecution that the dog – whose current whereabouts are unknown – had been used “as a weapon”. But that was refuted by Graham, of Charlotte Street, Carlisle, while Judge James Adkin concluded the animal was taken along by him to “intimidate”.
Graham – who has 138 offences on his record – admitted being in charge of a dog which caused injury while dangerously out of control. He was jailed and banned from having custody of any dog for five years.
Smith, 35, of Mount Pleasant Road, Carlisle, received a suspended prison term with community requirements at the crown court earlier this week after admitting affray.
